A. Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines bind to GABA inhibitory receptors to reduce firing rate. Diazepam and lorazepam are most often used as an adjunctive therapy for myoclonic as well as for partial and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Lorazepam has a shorter pharmacokinetic half-life but stays in the brain longer than diazepam. Diazepam is available for rectal administration to avoid or interrupt prolonged generalized tonicclonic seizures or clusters. Other benzodiazepines may be used in the treatment of various epilepsies but should be considered for use only after trials with monotherapy or combinations of most other medications for treatment of seizures fail.